The Dispatch Podcast What The People of Gaza Actually Think | Interview: Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib (RE-AIR)
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Jul 7, 2025 Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian-American activist and senior fellow at The Atlantic Council, shares his insights on life in the Gaza Strip. He discusses the complexities of public opinion in Gaza, the contrasting approaches of Hamas and the PLO, and the impact of events like October 7. Alkhatib delves into the support for Hamas, challenges of Palestinian governance, and the urgent need for a moderate voice advocating peace. The conversation offers a nuanced perspective on the hopes for Palestinian sovereignty and potential coexistence with Israel.
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Hamas's Pragmatism and Internal Coup
- Hamas showed signs of pragmatism around 2017 by revising their charter to flirt with a two-state solution.
- The October 7, 2023 attack was driven by hardline factions frustrated by political deadlock and waning popularity.
Layers of Hamas Support in Gaza
- Hamas's support in Gaza before October 7th was generally around 25-30%, sustained by ideological followers and patronage networks.
- Many Gazans saw Hamas support as a vote against the Palestinian Authority more than for Hamas itself.
Blockade and Hamas Priorities
- The Israeli blockade is partly a consequence of Hamas prioritizing military buildup over civilian needs.
- Gazans are aware their hardships result from Hamas's choices as well as external restrictions.
